A man in Shenzhen recently fell ill after attempting to clear dried bird droppings from his car roof, accidentally inhaling a type of fungus known as "cryptococcus," leading to pneumonia. According to a post by Shenzhen Songgang People's Hospital, the unnamed man, referred to as Xiao Wei (a pseudonym), found bird droppings on his car roof and proceeded to clean it with his hands. As the droppings were dried by the sun, the dormant spores of the novel Cryptococcus soon turned into dust. Upon close contact with the bird droppings, Xiao Wei inhaled the spores, which caused lung fungal infection.
Cryptococcus is a common fungus that thrives in pigeon and swallow droppings, nests, and damp soil. Symptoms of pulmonary Cryptococcosis include coughing, fever, chest pain, and vomiting. However, early medical intervention usually results in recovery. Doctors warn that if the fungus enters the central nervous system via the bloodstream, it can develop into serious cryptococcal meningitis, causing severe symptoms such as intense headache, vomiting, blurred vision, and altered consciousness, which can be life-threatening. Individuals with diabetes, those on long-term corticosteroids, and cancer chemotherapy patients are at higher risk.
To ensure safety, doctors recommend a three-step process for cleaning bird droppings on cars or balconies. First, proper protection is necessary; wear a mask and gloves to prevent skin contact and inhalation of spores. Second, dampen the droppings with wet paper towels or cloths for 3 to 5 minutes to soften them and prevent dust from being kicked up, while also protecting the car paint. Finally, securely dispose of the waste after rinsing, and thoroughly wash your hands.